It’s a problem that can find its way into any home, and it accounts for an estimated 18,000 deaths each year. Radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. (after smoking) and it is everywhere. It is odorless, tasteless, and radioactive. There are several ways t test for radon gas but only one way to test it and get the results back quickly. In a real estate transaction the information is usually needed within 10 days of a signed contract. A home can be tested and have the results back in 48 hours with a continuous monitor. The whole U.S. uses the EPA 4.0 rating as the standard predictor of the need to reduce the radon gas level in the home.
Information on Radon from the Environmental Protection Agency
EPA maintains a comprehensive web site on radon at:
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/
You can also get free publications mailed to you from this site:
http://www/epa.gov/iaq/radon/pubs/index.html
*A Citizen’s Guide to Radon
*Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction
*Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide to Radon
What is it?
Radon gas occurs naturally when uranium, present in most rocks and soils, starts to break down. This process causes the release of atomic particles. When these particles are inhaled, they deposit in our lungs and alter the cell DNA. The change in our lung tissue is what increases the risk of lung cancer. Radon is all around us, but usually in such low levels that there is little risk. However, if radon is allowed to concentrate undisturbed it can quickly rise to dangerous levels.
How does it get into the house?
Like most gases, radon is affected by air pressure. When a home’s basement or foundation punctures the soil, it acts like a vacuum offering an area of lesser pressure, relative to the surrounding area. Radon then is literally sucked into the home through the foundation. Every home will have a positive read for radon gas inside the home. Knowing the level of concentrated gas levels in your home is the only way for a homeowner to assess how vulnerable they are to long-term exposure.
We can test any size home for $150.00 and results can be delivered in two days.
